Corfu is an intriguing island on the west side of Greece. Sharing a climate with the Italians, but a culture with the Greeks, holidays to Corfu have a unique atmosphere that combines humid green landscapes, luscious forests and golden beaches with backgammon, ouzo and a slow-paced lifestyle.
The island of Corfu is one of the most loved in Greece, possibly because it really is one of a kind. Situated so close to Italy that it shares a climate with them, many Greeks joke that it isn't really a Hellenic island at all. However, the culture is true to its homeland with the same laid-back attitude, strong sense of hospitality and incredible culinary traditions.
Historical Corfu has quite a story behind it. Once occupied by the Venetians, the fortified capital city withstood three Ottoman Empire sieges, and throughout the island the pride in their regional heritage is clear. If you're considering cheap holidays to Greece consider going to Corfu All Inclusive. You'll see all sorts of beautiful chapels, castles and ruins on your way between beaches and pools, cities and villages.
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With one of Corfu's most beautiful beaches, Aghios Georgios South attracts hundreds to its shores every year, promising watersports, day trips to neighbouring resorts and great food and drink all day and all night. Despite its popularity, however, it's never what you would call crowded.
Arillas has some of the best watersports opportunities on the island. Located between two peninsulas, this charming resort is popular among families and couples, as well as thrill-seekers looking to get out on the high seas. You can boat trip to nearby islets and join in with the wine festival.
Corfu Town is the capital city of Corfu, and is also one of the most cosmopolitan areas on the island. It has a rich cultural heritage, with ancient winding streets, a huge Venetian Fortress and ample galleries and museums. Big shopping districts and incredible nightlife complete the city's offering.
Gouvia is a truly picturesque resort which sprung up from the remains of an ancient Venetian navel base, which you can look around. The harbour is full of traditional Greek restaurants and you can bet on an authentic island experience here.
Built at the foot of Mount Pantokrator, this scenic village is a postcard-perfect destination for families, couples and individuals looking to get out of the touristy areas of Corfu. A beautiful spot at the north of the island, it has an idyllic Blue Flag beach.
One of the most popular resorts in Corfu, and indeed the Med, San Stefanos' tourist industry has never caused it to lose its authentic village charm. A fishing town by origin, San Stefanos has golden sands, traditional restaurants and low-key nightlife.
Famous for its Tunnel of Love water channel, as well as fantastic beaches, Sidari is a popular resort with all age groups. With its waterpark, access to watersports, as well as horse-riding opportunities for daytime activities, this resort also has a lively night-time scene at its many restaurants and bars.
Corfu's fertile landscape has harnessed the warm climate to grow bigger, juicier and tastier ingredients that other Greek islands. Sharing the weather of neighbouring Italy provides incredible fruit and veg. However, the tavernas in Corfu stick to their traditional Greek recipes, and the results are unlike anything you've ever tasted.
Every single resort on the island has its own selection of Corfiot restaurants to choose from, and authentic, family-owned establishments welcome you in with great local wines and tasty specials. Gouvia and Pelekas undoubtedly lead the way, however, with Pelekas' Sunset Restaurant atop Kaiser's Throne considered by many to be the best restaurant on the island.
If it's international cuisine you're looking for then Corfu Town, Kavos and Aghios Georgios North are your best bets. The capital city has the higher class affairs, with fusion food, pizzerias and reputable chefs. Whereas the more tourist-heavy resorts will do you all the home comforts - a Sunday roast or full English - as well as a curry or even a Chinese takeaway.
As one of the larger Greek islands, Corfu has more beach than many of its neighbours. A trip around the island will take you from busy Blue Flag award-winners to cosy secret coves or nudist havens. However you like to enjoy the seaside, it's guaranteed to be covered on this island.
For those who love an exciting beachside getaway with water sports, Aghios Georgios North is one of the largest strips of sand, and has water-skiing opportunities and para-sailing up for grabs. Kavos too, as the home of young clubbing culture in Corfu, has plenty of opportunities to speed across the surface of deep blue.
If you're a more laid-back type, and you just want to settle down with your book and sun yourself, then Nissaki should be top of your list. Its white pebbled beach is small and understated, with an accompanying village and handful of tavernas that serve excellent local dishes.
For nightlife in Corfu you'll find that every village, town and resort has its own offerings, from karaoke to traditional Greek dances. However, if you're looking for a real blow-out then there are two main contenders. Kavos is the first, which is the crazy youth festival that rages all summer long. For cheap drinks, clubs and boat parties, Kavos can't be beaten.
If you're looking for a night out with more style, Corfu Town is the place. The bars here are modern and fashionable, with hundreds of people from all over gathering to enjoy cocktails and live music. You'll find anything from jazz to electro, swing to metal, and the bars often don't close until the last customer calls it a night.
Depending on what you're looking for, there are plenty of excellent opportunities to shop until you drop in Corfu. For the high-end jewellers and fashion boutique stores it's got to be Corfu Town, the trendy capital. The marble and granite streets are lined with shiny window fronts selling watches, figure-hugging clothes and state-of-the-art electronics.
However, if it's authentic, handmade Greek goods you're after, pick Greek island holiday packages in the Old Town district of the capital, and browse the many market stalls. From here, visit one of the traditional little Corfiot villages. Every one of these will have their own silversmith or sandal-maker, and you really can't beat the real deal if you're looking for leather goods.